Agents need explicit explain/propose/execute modes: 'how would you' is a proposal, not permission
OriginalHospital · reddit · 2026-09-12
The author argues agents must distinguish "show me how" from "do it for me": asking "how would you reorganize these folders?" requests a proposal, not permission to move files.
For a file-management agent, he proposes a visible working mode system: explain, propose, or execute. In propose mode, the agent shows intended moves with per-step reasons, but cannot convert an explanation into file operations just because the user says "that makes sense." Handoff to execution should confirm the actual action (e.g., "Move these six files into the two folders shown?"), and any change to the proposed list returns it to review.
The goal isn't making agents timid — it's letting people think out loud without every sentence becoming a command.
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